Full details & bid : hemmings.com
The 1950 Buick Special Deluxe Four-Door Tourback Sedan represents a significant design transition in the post-war American automotive landscape, showcasing a smoother, more integrated body style that moved away from the distinct, separate fenders of the pre-war era. The “Tourback” designation referred to the sleek, sloping rear end, a departure from the more upright sedan designs of the time, offering a touch of streamlined elegance. The Special was Buick’s entry-level model, providing a balance of comfort, style, and value, making it a popular choice for families. This particular example has undergone a reported body-off restoration completed in 2022 and features notable upgrades, including a modernized front suspension with dropped spindles for a lower stance and the addition of power front disc brakes for enhanced safety. The electrical system has also been converted to a more reliable 12-volt setup. Originally from Missouri, this Buick Special Deluxe has been under the care of its current owner since 2012 and has reportedly never seen a Minnesota winter. While appearing largely original, these thoughtful modifications blend classic aesthetics with improved drivability and safety for the modern road.
“Fireball Dynaflash Eight” Performance: Powering this 1950 Buick Special Deluxe is the reportedly original “Fireball Dynaflash Eight” 248-cubic-inch OHV inline-eight engine. This engine was a hallmark of Buick engineering, known for its smooth operation and respectable power output for the era. During the reported engine rebuild, new pistons, rings, and bearings were installed, ensuring reliable performance. The engine is paired with a “Dynaflow” automatic transmission, Buick’s innovative torque converter-based transmission, which provided smooth, clutchless gear changes, a feature proudly advertised on the car’s lower rear quarter panels. This powertrain combination offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, characteristic of Buick’s reputation for quality and engineering.
Restoration and Subtle Modernization: This Buick Special Deluxe has reportedly undergone a body-off restoration completed in 2022, suggesting a thorough refurbishment of both the body and chassis. Rust repairs were carried out in common problem areas such as the trunk, floorpans, and rocker panels, according to the seller. Minor rust was also noted in the front part of the rear wheel arches. The blue paint is described as “not show quality but looks good at 10 feet,” indicating a presentable driver-quality finish. A notable modification is the lowered stance achieved through Fatman dropped front spindles and shorter rear springs. This gives the car a more contemporary and aggressive look. Furthermore, the front suspension has been upgraded with power front disc brakes from Classic Disc Brakes, a significant safety enhancement over the original drum brakes. The electrical system has been converted to a 12-volt system, improving the reliability and performance of electrical components. The car rides on body-color steel wheels fitted with trim rings and Buick hubcaps, maintaining a classic appearance despite the modern suspension upgrades.
Interior Comfort and Original Features: The interior of this 1950 Buick Special Deluxe is trimmed in gray cloth and vinyl upholstery, which the seller describes as being in “like new condition,” suggesting a meticulous restoration of the seating surfaces. A unique and period-correct feature is the factory lap robe strap attached to the back of the front seat. For added monitoring, auxiliary gauges from Bosch have been discreetly mounted underneath the dashboard. A sun visor is fitted to the windshield, providing shade for the driver. While the interior retains its classic charm, the focus appears to have been on preserving the original aesthetic while ensuring comfort and functionality.
Included Parts and Noted Imperfections: This Buick Special Deluxe comes with the significant benefit of including the parts needed to return the suspension and brakes to their original stock specifications. This provides the new owner with the option to revert the modifications if desired. However, there are a few imperfections to note. The windshield has a crack on the passenger’s side, and a second crack is present in a passenger’s-side window. Additionally, the vacuum windshield wipers are reported to be non-functional, requiring attention.
Summary:
- 1950 Buick Special Deluxe Four-Door Tourback Sedan with a reported body-off restoration in 2022.
- Powered by a rebuilt original “Fireball Dynaflash Eight” 248-cu.in. inline-eight engine.
- Features a “Dynaflow” automatic transmission.
- Modernized front suspension with Fatman dropped spindles and power front disc brakes.
- 12-volt electrical system conversion.
- Gray cloth and vinyl interior in “like new condition.”
- Comes with parts to return suspension and brakes to stock.
- Noted imperfections include cracked windshield and passenger window, and non-working vacuum wipers.
Disclaimer: This vehicle has undergone modifications to its suspension and brakes. While a restoration was reportedly completed, potential buyers are advised to inspect the car thoroughly to assess the quality of the work and the condition of all components, including the noted cracks and non-functional wipers.
AI Assistance: Gemini
